Maj. Gen. Thomas C. Seamands, commanding general, U.S. Army Human Resources Command, meets with 4th Infantry Division command teams and primary staff members at the 4th Inf. Div. Headquarters Oct. 19, 2016. (Photo by Master Sgt. Brent M. Williams)

By Sgt. 1st Class Jason Epperson

4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office

U.S. Army Human Resources Command (HRC) Commanding General Maj. Gen. Thomas C. Seamands and Command Sgt. Maj. Wardell Jefferson met with 4th Infantry Division command teams and primary staff members during an HRC Roadshow Oct. 19, 2016.

The day began with a breakfast attended by the HRC command team and several Fort Carson adjutant general Soldiers.

Jefferson noted four areas of emphasis in his address to all Fort Carson human resources (HR) Soldiers.

“Competence: be the subject matter expert that your commander needs,” Jefferson said. “Training: always seek to improve yourself and your Soldiers; get out of your comfort zone and learn new aspects to your professions. Networking: it’s important to be familiar with your fellow HR professionals; not only on your post, but across the Army and across military occupational specialties; be the person that others seek out. Passion: you have to love what you do to be good at it.”

Later that afternoon during a noncommissioned officer professional development (NCOPD) session, Jefferson said the importance of the HRC Roadshow is to engage and educate Soldiers on current issues and guiding them through their careers.

Command Sgt. Maj. Wardell Jefferson, U.S. Army Human Resources Command, discusses professional development, current manning initiatives and strategic impact with 4th Infantry Division noncommissioned officers Oct. 19, 2016, at McMahon Auditorium. (Photo by Master Sgt. Brent M. Williams)

“The reason why we like to come out is to show transparency, and that everything we do affects these Soldiers and their Families,” Jefferson said. “In order for us to stay abreast of what’s going on and educate their Families, they need to hear it from us.”

Jefferson said the 4th Inf. Div. is doing “great” things and there has been positive communication transferring updated information.

“Soldiers have to stay aware of what’s going on in their profession to be an effective leader,” Jefferson added.

Soldiers attending the NCOPD said they appreciated the chance to hear Jefferson brief new information about what’s changing and going on within the ranks.

“We received a lot of good information across the force that simply gets overlooked day by day,” said Sgt. 1st Class Daniel Rhodes, operations sergeant, Division Artillery, 4th Inf. Div.

“You are your own career manager,” Rhodes said. “Regulations are always changing and there’s always a new All Army Activities (messages) that come out, so the HRC provides good, updated information. We have to really appreciate the fact that people come out here and do this for us and get the actual facts out to the force instead of by rumors.”

Soldiers with Troop A, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, use teamwork and mental agility to move themselves and all their equipment across an obstacle without touching the ground during a leader reaction course on the U.S. Air Force Academy Oct. 20, 2016. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Diandra J. Harrell)

By Staff Sgt. Diandra J. Harrell

4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office

U.S. Air Force Academy — Fort Carson Soldiers conducted a leader reaction course as part of an Apache Warrior Competition to train on tactical knowledge and physical strength and build camaraderie Oct. 20, 2016, at Jacks Valley on the U.S. Air Force Academy.

Members of Troop A, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, work together to complete an obstacle on a leader reaction course at Jack’s Valley on the U.S. Air Force Academy Oct. 20, 2016. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Diandra J. Harrell)

The Apache Warrior Competition is a three-day event designed to build team cohesion and physical intensity neededfor combat.

“We wanted to implement this competition on a quarterly basis to get our Soldiers out of the dullness of normal day-to-day activities such as vehicle maintenance and paperwork, and actually get them to do the training that prepares them for combat,” said Capt. Travis Anderson, commander, Troop A, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.

The first two days of the competition tested the Soldiers’ physical strength.

“Day one of the competition was a troop ruck race, which included an air-assault mission and an 8-mile foot march,” said Anderson. “On (the second day) we conducted a modified Ranger physical assessment test, which had to be completed in 40 minutes and consisted of running up to 3 miles in full kit (helmet and body armor), an obstacle wall and rope climb.”

The competition culminated with the leader reaction course designed to test the platoons’ mental agility.

Staff Sgt. James Murphy, section sergeant, Red Platoon, Troop A, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, traverses a cable during a leader reaction course at Jacks Valley on the U.S. Air Force Academy Oct. 20, 2016. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Diandra J. Harrell)

“Today we’re building small-unit leaders with a leader reaction course,” said 2nd Lt. Kevin C. Whitham, platoon leader, Troop A. “The course includes 11 obstacles that consist of various mental and physical feats, but the Soldiers will have to rely on their problem-solving skills in order to be successful.”

After a briefing from Whitham, the Red, White, Blue and Headquarters Platoons moved toward the obstacle courses.

Staff Sgt. James Murphy, Red Platoon section sergeant, said it was a great learning experience for junior Soldiers.

“This course is a great opportunity for lower enlisted Soldiers to take initiative and make decisions for themselves under pressure,” said Murphy.

Members of Blue Platoon, Troop A, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, use teamwork to get a simulated casualty and all platoon members across wooden planks during a leadership reaction course at Jack’s Valley Oct. 20, 2016. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Diandra J. Harrell)

Although every team gave their all, the Headquarters and Red platoons were tied at the conclusion of the competition. The Soldiers chose to have an impromptu combatitives tournament between a member from each platoon to determine the overall winner. In the end, Headquarters Platoon won the competition.

Spc. Yanetsy Samuell, a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear specialist with Headquarters Platoon, said the event helped her gain self-confidence.

“I’m usually weak at (physical training, but) after this week, I realized I could push myself harder than I thought,” said Samuell. “I completed every event and never quit. Now I truly know what I am capable of.” Anderson said the Soldiers performed well.

“This competition helped us build stronger teams and boost the confidence of every Soldier, from the platoon sergeant to the youngest private, which is what the competition is really about,” he said.

Soldiers with Troop A, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, conduct a rope climb during a modified Ranger physical assessment test at the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) obstacle course on Fort Carson Oct. 19, 2016. (Photo by Alexandra Flodin)

Chief Warrant Officer 4 Shane E. Gingrich, center, CH-47 Chinook standardization instructor pilot, Company B, 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, reveals access to the CH-47’s main cargo hook to Air Force Junior ROTC cadets from Guyer High School in Denton, Texas, Oct. 20, 2016. (Photo by Sgt. Gregory T. Summers)

By Sgt. Gregory T. Summers

4th Combat Aviation Brigade Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

Air Force Junior ROTC cadets from Guyer High School in Denton, Texas, visited 4th Infantry Division Soldiers and the Mountain Post Oct. 20, 2016.

Retired Air Force Lt. Col. Blake Fentress and his cadets chose Colorado Springs to partake in its unique surroundings of mountains, history and military community as part of an enlisted and officers career field trip, which takes place every three years.

“We take our kids on a trip to explore different military career fields and different military bases,” Fentress said. “We call it the ‘Monster Trip’ because it’s a big deal and a wonderful opportunity to spend time with various enlisted and officer career fields and learn more about them.”

An Air Force Junior ROTC cadet from Guyer High School in Denton, Texas, looks inside the cockpit of an AH-64 Apache helicopter from the 6th Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, Oct. 20, 2016. (Photo by Sgt. Gregory T. Summers)

Hosted by leaders and Soldiers with the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, the cadets received a hands-on tour of Butts Army Airfield and the brigade’s airframes including the AH-64 Apache, CH-47 Chinook and UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters. They also received a course on how AH-64 Apache helicopter pilots and unmanned aircraft systems work together to acquire and engage targets.

“We are honored and very excited to host these kids and show them our equipment and share our vital role here on Fort Carson,” said Chief Warrant Officer 4 Shane E. Gingrich, CH-47 standardization instructor pilot, Company B, 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, 4th CAB.

The cadets had lunch with 4th CAB Soldiers at the Warfighter Dining Facility.

The tour also included a visit to the Army’s oldest tank battalion, where Soldiers assigned to 1st Battalion, 66th Armor Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div., introduced the cadets to the M1A2 Abrams Main Battle Tank.

“We had a distinguished opportunity to converse with these cadets and they wanted to know everything that we do. It left me, as I’m sure it did others, with a great feeling of accomplishment,” said Gingrich. “It was a great time with these kids today.”

Although the cadets were only able to experience the Mountain Post for one day, the visit will be a memorable and possibly life-changing one, according to Fentress.

“The magic in this trip is that there will be kids with us who will ultimately decide what they want to do in life after this trip,” Fentress said. “Just having the opportunity to connect with one of our nation’s Soldiers is something they will never forget, and it may just click for them and help them decide whether a path in the military could be right for them.

“Fort Carson was amazing, and we got exactly what we asked for which was a taste of Army life,” Fentress said. “We loved our hosts.”

The cadets concluded their trip to Colorado Springs with visits to the U.S. Air Force Academy, the Olympic Training Center and Garden of the Gods.

A CH-47 Chinook helicopter crew assigned to Company B, 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, pose for a photo with Air Force Junior ROTC cadets from Guyer High School in Denton, Texas, Oct. 20, 2016. (Photo by Sgt. Gregory T. Summers)

Spc. Jason Baird, M109 Paladin artillery system mechanic, Company F, 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, inventories equipment for the Forward Repair System prior to an inspection at the battalion motor pool Oct. 13, 2016. (Photo by 1st Lt. Kirk Brandenburg)

By 1st Lt. Kirk Brandenburg

3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division

Following nearly seven weeks of intense field training since July, 2016, during which their artillery equipment saw daily use in rough conditions, field artillery Soldiers from 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, are focused on ensuring their systems are in tip-top shape before their next mission.

Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery Regiment, are preparing the equipment that includes M109 Paladin artillery systems, through intensive maintenance periods. This included a 10-day after-operation maintenance (AOM) period at Fort Carson once the vehicles returned by rail the first week of October, 2016, after a rotation at the National Training Center (NTC) at Fort Irwin, California.

“The same equipment that has endured the rigors of two rail movements to and from California, four weeks in the NTC desert (including nine consecutive days of conventional warfare) and 20 days of firing during the Iron Strike field exercise here in July, needs to be combat ready as it’s loaded onto ships for future missions,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Steven McNally, 3rd Bn., 29th FA Reg. “We’ve trained intensely and now we’re focused on being ready for the real deal.”

Pfc. Demetrius De Souza, advanced field artillery tactical data system specialist, Battery C, 3rd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, places excess equipment in a “kicker” box Oct. 13, 2016. Excess equipment is identified during pre-deployment inventories to ensure the unit deploys in the future with only what it needs. (Photo by 1st Lt. Kirk Brandenburg)

The purpose of the 10-day AOM is to recover units at every echelon from the exposure to the training environment and prepare them for success in any follow-on missions, said 1st Lt. John Kewley, a platoon leader for Battery C.

“Bigger brother to the five-day AOM, the 10-Day AOM process normally follows field problems of greater duration and intensity like NTC,” Kewley said. “In part, the 10-day maintenance process helps us identify any deficiencies we may have developed over the field problems. Identifying deficiencies helps us move forward appropriately from a maintenance and supply standpoint to ensure we are at peak mission readiness.”

Staff Sgt. William Rodriguez, a platoon sergeant with Battery C, said, “We identify shortages and broken or unserviceable equipment so we can be fullymission capable.”

The 10-day maintenance period was conducted by all 3rd ABCT units and followed a checklist directed by brigade leadership with minimum daily tasks to complete. Daily tasks included basic redeployment procedures, such as downloading ammunition, to more artillery-specific tasks for 3rd Bn., 29th FA Reg., such as monitoring conditions of punch gun tubes.

Part of the assessment also focused on identifying excess equipment, which the brigade cannot take on a deployment.

Identifying extra equipment also ensures readiness across the battalion and brigade, to potentially reallocate parts that other units may need.

“I supervise all the tasks, but ultimately I trust my section chiefs to complete the AOM checklist. Every Soldier understands the importance of maintenance down to the lowest level. We have no issues completing the process,” said Rodriguez.

Staff Sgt. James Scheiben, infantryman, Company C, 1st Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, explains the trajectory of different types of rounds fired out of the 25 mm gun mounted on a Bradley fighting vehicle to Nicholas Mikula, press secretary of the House Armed Services Committee, and Kathryn Mitchell, military legislative assistant to Rep. Jim Langevin, during a congressional delegation tour of the battalion motor pool Oct. 26, 2016. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Ange Desinor)

By Staff Sgt. Ange Desinor

3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

A congressional staff delegation that visited Fort Carson Oct. 26, 2016, on behalf of the House Armed Service Committee had the opportunity to see the 4th Infantry Division’s armored capabilities up close while talking to tankers from 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team.

The delegation, led by Mike Tehrani, military legislative assistant to Rep. Austin Scott, and Kathryn Mitchell, military legislative assistant to Rep. Jim Langevin, visited with Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, while touring the unit motor pool. The purpose of the visit was to provide members of the House Armed Services Committee with information regarding Fort Carson units’ support of various upcoming missions overseas.

“They came down to assess the ‘Iron’ Brigade’s readiness for an upcoming deployment,” said Capt. Chris Kell, civil affairs officer, 3rd ABCT. “It’s a chance to put our Soldiers in front of people who influence national policy, as well as to show our lethality.

“It’s also about us being able to show the American people that they did a good job picking us for upcoming missions,” Kell said.

While touring the motor pool with brigade and battalion leaders, the congressional staff members interacted with Soldiers who showed them an M1A2 Abrams tank, M2A3 Bradley fighting vehicle, M1064 mortar carrier and other weapons systems.

“I am very impressed,” said Tehrani. “When we are at work in Washington, our ability to reach out is limited. So it helps to come out and see how things are going on the ground.”

Mitchell had the opportunity to climb into the turret of an Abrams tank, an experience she said helped put her in the boots of Soldiers for a few moments to better understand their needs.

“From someone who doesn’t come from a (military) service background, I think (talking directly with Soldiers) was very critical,” said Mitchell.

Chief Warrant Officer 5 John Moseley, outgoing command chief warrant officer, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, throws his hands up and surrenders as he is hosed down for a traditional last aviator’s flight and bath Oct. 27, 2016. (Photo by Sgt. Gregory T. Summers)

Col. Lori Robinson, commander, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, thanks Chief Warrant Officer 5 John Moseley, outgoing command chief warrant officer, for his service to the brigade during a change of responsibility ceremony Oct. 28, 2016. Moseley relinquished the position to Command Chief Warrant Officer 5 Jimmie D. Brooks, left. (Photo by Sgt. Gregory T. Summers)

By Capt. Shaun T. Manley

4th Combat Aviation Brigade Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

Families and friends of the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, gathered at the William “Bill” Reed Special Event Center to be part of an infrequent Army ceremony Oct. 28, 2016.

The aviation brigade conducted a change of responsibility ceremony for its command chief warrant officer position in which Chief Warrant Officer 5 John M. Moseley relinquished responsibility to Chief Warrant Officer 5 Jimmie D. Brooks.

The command chief warrant officer (CCWO) position, enacted for aviation brigades in October 2014, affords oversight and leadership to warrant officers throughout the aviation brigade.

“Our warrant officer corps has been a crucial part of our Army for many years,” said Col. Lori Robinson, commander, 4th CAB. “As much technical expertise as they bring, our warrant officers are leaders within this formation, and not just warrant officers, but Soldiers of all ranks look to them for expertise and competence.”

In order to serve in this rare position, the senior chief warrant officer must have served in every aviation warrant officer position, ensuring his ability to mentor, coach and develop warrant officers from various military occupational specialties throughout the organization.

Warrant officers make up about 10 percent of the aviation unit, filling positions across the brigade and bringing immense knowledge on a multitude of occupational specialties and skillsets. These include technical flying skills, understanding the enemy, threat systems, maintenance, gunnery, property books, ammunition, food service, human resources, intelligence, air traffic control, unmanned aerial systems, communications and more.

Moseley, the “Iron Eagles’” initial and outgoing CCWO, serving in the position since November 2014, has completed his duties and responsibilities with professionalism, and has made a positive difference, according to Robinson.

“(Moseley) represents the qualities we look for in our senior warrant officer leaders,” said Robinson. “He has truly made a difference through his mentorship, friendship and management advice skills.”

Throughout the Army, only roughly a dozen CCWO positions exist, with most brigades only being authorized a commissioned officer as the commander and a command sergeant major.

For the aviation brigade, the CCWO offers the command team and the unit a leader and subject matter expert on warrant officers.

“My experience here has never been about the training, deployments or equipment,” said Moseley. “It’s always been about the people, and it’s been an incredible experience.”

“The position was challenging and exceeded my expectations,” added Moseley. “I’m both humbled and proud to have served as your command chief warrant officer.”

Brooks comes to the 4th CAB from Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington where he served as a brigade standardization officer. He said he is ready to take on the challenges ahead and honored to be part of the Iron Eagles command team.

“I’m excited to be here and part of this great organization,” said Brooks. “John Moseley has left some big shoes to fill, and I only hope to walk in his footsteps and continue providing the leadership and assisting in carrying on the legacy of the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade.”

From left, Chief Warrant Officer 5 Jimmie Brooks; Col. Lori Robinson, commander, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division; and Chief Warrant Officer 5 John Moseley stand at attention during a change of responsibility ceremony at the William “Bill” Reed Special Events Center Oct. 28, 2016. Brooks replaced Moseley as the brigade’s command chief warrant officer. (Photo by Sgt. Gregory T. Summers)

As the ceremony concluded and the responsibility officially passed from Moseley to Brooks, the readiness of the brigade and its warrant officers’ develop­ment moved forward with a challenge from the commander.

“After talking with (Moseley) for just a short while, you will know that he loves the Army, Army aviation and being a Soldier and a warrant officer,” added Robinson. “I challenge all warrant officers in 4th CAB to be that leader.”

Marking the final day as the CCWO, Moseley was afforded his final flight, a tradition in the aviation community.

The day before the ceremony, Moseley, also an AH-64 Apache helicopter pilot, took to the sky completing his final mission in control of the rotary wing attack aircraft while Family members, Soldiers and friends of the brigade awaited his return.

As Moseley taxied the aircraft into its parking spot following his flight, Fort Carson firefighters sprayed the aircraft with water as the guests cheered, thanking him for his 24 years of service to the nation.

“What a remarkable event,” said Moseley. “I am grateful for the oppor­tunity to have served with so many professionals and am very thankful for this (last flight).”

Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Alvarez, senior telecommunications sergeant and signal NCO in charge, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, wraps a child’s hands before putting on boxing gloves at the YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region Memorial Park Recreation Center Oct. 11, 2016. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Ange Desinor)

By Staff Sgt. Ange Desinor

3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

Colorado Springs — When Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Alvarez takes off his Army boots at the end of the day, he trades them for a different kind of boots.

When he laces up his boxing boots, the principles he maintains as a senior telecommunications sergeant and the signal NCO in charge, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, go with him to the YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region’s Memorial Park Recreation Center in Colorado Springs.

It’s there that he spends more than 10 hours a week, stepping into the ring with children as young as 8, teaching them how to box and focusing on turning them into champions of principle, if not straight champs. His Army Values bleed into his volunteer work, a Soldier imparting scruples such as personal courage and a sense of duty, to never give up, no matter the adversity.

“I am the head coach for local amateur boxers — the Colorado Silver Gloves, Golden Gloves, and the Junior Olympics team’s representative for this gym,” said Alvarez, a USA Boxing certified and registered coach.

“I focus on the kids’ ability to compete at the local, state and national level,” said Alvarez, a former New York state Golden Glove champion. “Boxing has been in my Family. I was always around professionals and amateurs.”

Consequently, he found himself in the ring at a young age, learning the same values of discipline and hard work he now imparts on his cagey adolescent apprentices. He trains young boxers two hours a day Monday through Friday.

Alvarez said he sees many parallels between the challenges of ensuring 3rd ABCT’s telecommuni­cations are always running smoothly and the lessons he teaches his youth boxers.

“What we do here isn’t just an individual sport, it’s a team effort,” said Alvarez. “This brings out everyone’s true colors by testing out (their) abilities. We sweat, train, live, eat and breathe this sport.

“What happens at work, what happens during training, and what happens when you’re in a combat environment when things don’t go as planned?” he said. “When you’re in between these ropes, you’re entire world changes. What are you going to do? Quit? Are you going to run or are you going to dig deep, fight through (it) and make split-second decisions so you don’t go down.”

Boxing, like the military, is not for the faint-hearted. Yet it’s also more than just outmuscling an opponent, he noted.

“This is a smart person sport. A tough person can come in here and get hurt just like in real life, just like in the Army. It’s the smarter person who usually comes up on top,” Alvarez said. “That’s what we teach the kids here. You have to think smart and fast to make sound decisions.”

While deployed to Kuwait last year with his brigade, Alvarez organized a boxing program that attracted an average of 15 Soldiers daily.

Some of those Soldiers, like Spc. Joseph Fisher, an operations specialist, now volunteer at the gym to help Alvarez train the children.

“I usually do mixed martial arts, but I wanted to train with him to see how the program was,” Fisher said of his first meeting with Alvarez in Kuwait. “When we came back, he asked if I wanted to work with the kids. Ever since then I’ve been working with him and coaching.”

Alvarez noted that the majority of the children who train with the Soldiers come from low-income families.

“I do this for the community,” said Alvarez. “A lot of these children are able to stay off the street, come to an area where they can put in hard work and get rewarded for it. This is like a sanctuary for some of the kids. For some, all they know is poverty and living a hard life.”

Pfc. Jesse Cervantes, a boxer with the U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program, works on his form Oct. 24, 2016, during boxing practice. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Tre Marris)

By Sgt. 1st Class Tre Marris

2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

Many years ago, a young boy begrudgingly walked into a gym with his father to learn about fitness and the sport of boxing. What had become a family tradition was something this young boy just didn’t want to do at the time.

Today, you can find that young boy, now an infantry­man in the U.S. Army, chasing his dreams inside the boxing ring.

Pfc. Jesse Cervantes, formerly assigned to Company C, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, stepped into the gym Oct. 24, 2016,  for boxing practice in preparation for his next tournament as one of the newest members of the U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program (WCAP).

The super heavyweight boxer started honing his boxing ability years before he joined the Army.

“When I was younger, I hated being in the gym, but my dad kept me in the gym,” he said. “He saw something in me I didn’t see at the time, and I eventually started loving it.”

Although he originally didn’t like the sport, it would eventually take him on a path not many Soldiers get to travel.

Cervantes started his Army boxing career with the All-Army Boxing Team, winning a gold medal at the national competition. He went on to compete in the National Association of Police Athletic/Activities League Boxing tournament in June  2016, where he won a bronze medal. Both medals would prove to be of added benefit when he applied to WCAP. To enroll in the WCAP boxing program, applicants must win at the All-Army national tournament or place in a national- level tournament. Once in WCAP, Soldier-athletes must meet benchmarks coaches set for them with the ultimate goal of qualifying for the Olympics.

Staff Sgt. Marquez Reyes, WCAP assistant boxing coach, said Cervantes has a desire to learn and is quick to implement instruction from the coaches.

“Every day in practice … if he knows he is doing something wrong and we tell him, he is quick to change it and get it right,” Reyes said. “In boxing it is very important to learn. If you are stubborn and don’t like change, you won’t succeed.”

Although Cervantes’ main focus now is becoming a better boxer, he said he relies on things he learned during his Army initial entry training to help him inside the ring.

“Being an 11B (infantryman) in the Army, you carry a lot of pride, hard work and dedication. When you get up in the morning, you focus on the task at hand and you work,” Cervantes said. “No matter where you are, it’s hard work and dedication — if you don’t do that, you fail.”

Soldiers with Company C, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, take cover after exiting a Stryker during a live-fire exercise on Fort Carson Oct. 26, 2016. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Nancy Lugo)

By Staff Sgt. Nancy Lugo

1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

A Stryker comes to a halt, dust billows over the vehicle as the ramp drops and Soldiers exit, making their way to a nearby dry riverbed.

Smoke erupts after Soldiers with the 299th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, clear the breach during a live-fire exercise on Fort Carson Oct. 26, 2016. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Nancy Lugo)

Soldiers from 2nd Battalion 23rd Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, surrounded an area of interest moving from low ground to high ground and fighting off an enemy to take the objective during a live-fire exercise Oct. 26, 2016, on Fort Carson.

“Some of these kids have never been downrange — never been in a real combat situation,” said 1st Sgt. Steven Adams, Company C, 2nd Bn., 23rd Inf. Reg. “It is important for us to make training as realistic as we possibly can so when they get on that two-way range (and are receiving enemy fire) on the battlefield, this is second nature.

“If we can identify the mistakes here … and we can fix those problems here, we can increase our lethality, which is the overall intent.”

As Soldiers moved through the dry riverbed, engineers used C-4 explosive to remove an obstacle, clearing the way for the platoon.

Company C, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Soldiers clear a dry riverbed during a live-fire exercise on Fort Carson Oct. 26, 2016. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Nancy Lugo)

“This is giving platoon leaders the repetition of maneuvering their platoon as well as integrating assets so that they can learn echelon of fires in order to move their vehicles and personnel up to an objective, clear it and also provide a screen element to push out recon in front of a larger element,” said Capt. William Dormer, assistant operations officer, 2nd Bn., 23rd Inf. Reg.

Platoon leaders had an unmanned aircraft system video feed, engineers and 60 mm and 120 mm mortars to help them get to and clear the objective.

“They are doing really well,” he said. “We have a few younger platoon leaders who are learning a lot. This is more assets than I ever got as a platoon leader. It is good to see them learn how to integrate all that and get the reps, both with fires using engineers and how to properly provide security for those engineers. It allows them to give additional assistance in our breach.”

Each platoon ran through the scenario with a dry fire, a blank fire and a live fire, giving each team member time to perfect his job.

Pvt. Christen McCullough, machine gunner, Company C, 2nd Bn., 23rd Inf. Reg., said the training prepared him for moving in his gear through mountainous terrain with his M240B machine gun as well as providing a clearer picture of what his role is in his squad.

“We have to always be trained to do the right thing the first time,” he said.

Soldiers with Company C, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, exit a Stryker during a live-fire exercise on Fort Carson Oct. 26, 2016. The training provided platoon leaders the repetition of maneuvering their platoon and integrating assets in order to move vehicles and personnel to an objective, clear it and provide a screen element to push out recon in front of a larger element. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Nancy Lugo)

Soldiers with 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, use new recreation equipment in the 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, barracks common area Oct. 27, 2016. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Ange Desinor)

By Staff Sgt. Ange Desinor

3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

Morale can be defined as “the capacity of a group’s members to maintain belief in an institution or goal, particularly in the face of opposition or hardship.”

As part of enhancing morale, the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, improved the quality of life for its Soldiers living in the barracks by bringing in new furniture, TVs, pool tables and foosball and pingpong tables to each of the battalion barracks.

“Wow, I am ecstatic about this,” said Spc. Deandre Addie, cavalry scout, 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment. “I wasn’t aware that they were going to do this for us. You can tell that they really care about our well-being.”

The barracks improvements are intended to encourage Soldiers to interact more and spend less time alone in their rooms, said Capt. Chase Rahm, Family readiness liaison, 3rd ABCT. “But the improvements also provide a safer outlet for Soldiers to do things like watch big games on the weekend.”

The improvements give the Soldiers an alternative, according to Rahm.

“The Soldiers now have an option,” he said. “Instead of going downtown to hang out at a bar, they can choose to stay and have fun in the barracks.”

“We made a wish become reality,” said Sgt. Maj. Christopher Williams, operations sergeant major, 3rd ABCT. “This was a vision we had among the command team. We wanted a way to encourage communication, provide an outlet for Soldiers, enhance morale and build relationships and camaraderie.”

It wasn’t just about putting new furniture in the barracks.

“You can’t ‘text’ a pool game,” said Williams. “You have to talk and communicate when you’re engaging in fun activities. This is about brothers and sisters uniting and boosting their resiliency.”

That seemed to be the case the first evening after the equipment was delivered, as a large group of Soldiers congregated in the recreation area of the 4th Sqdn., 10th Cav. Reg., barracks.

“This gives me something to do on my downtime,” said Pfc. Adonis Glover, Bradley fighting vehicle system maintainer, Troop D, 4th Sqdn., 10th Cav. Reg. “Instead of being in a room playing video games, watching movies or just sleeping because you’re bored, you have a way to spend your free time with your battle buddies.”

Williams said the brigade is also working on getting Wi-Fi in the barracks.

A Soldier from Company B, 4th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, pulls his “unconscious” driver out of a vehicle after a simulated improvised explosive device attack Oct. 19, 2016. (Photo by 1st Lt. Logan Bolitho)

By 1st Lt. Logan Bolitho

4th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division

A vehicle convoy was moving its precious cargo of water, fuel and ammo to Soldiers in desperate need of resupply when the third vehicle in line was suddenly “hit” with an improvised explosive device (IED).

Convoy elements on a logistical resupply mission secure an ambulance exchange point after taking casualties during a convoy squad training exercise Oct. 18, 2016. (Photo by 1st Lt. Logan Bolitho)

The convoy circled the damaged vehicle and pulled security as “enemy” forces attacked the convoy with small arms fire. This was but one of the scenarios the Soldiers of the 4th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, faced during their convoy squad training exercise (STX) on Fort Carson Oct. 13-21, 2016.

Always looking to increase its Soldiers’ versatility and adaptability on the battlefield, “Packhorse” Battalion leadership held the STX to train and validate its Soldiers on vital tasks of distributing water, fuel and ammunition.

“Proper convoy operations are vital to mission success,” said Master Sgt. Christopher Morrow, first sergeant, Company B, 4th BSB. “When we go out on a logistical release point or a logistics resupply or some other mission, we have to be able to support and defend ourselves, otherwise we cannot support others.”

As the only sustainment battalion in 1st SBCT, the 4th BSB Soldiers provide all the logistical support to the brigade and six other battalions.

Providing the fuel, water, medical care and ammunitions needed for Soldiers to conduct operations on a day-to-day basis is the mission of the battalion.

Spc. Kevin Valdez, health care specialist, Company C, 4th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, assesses a simulated casualty during a training exercise Oct. 17, 2016. (Photo by 1st Lt. Logan Bolitho)

“Sustainers are often very competent in fueling, fixing, driving and providing medical care (but) the challenge is becoming and staying proficient in our warrior tasks and battle drills,” said Lt. Col. Eric McCoy, commander, 4th BSB.

The battalion conducted the convoy exercise to challenge leaders and Soldiers on how to react to various threats during a tactical convoy, he said. The Soldiers were tested with various scenarios, ranging from taking small arms fire to an IED strike disabling a vehicle while taking enemy fire. A small team of Soldiers role-played as opposing forces (OPFOR) to make the training more realistic.

“The OPFOR did (its) job well. There was variety on the lane, and it was very challenging training. I feel prepared for future missions after going through this,” said Spc. Michael Malave, heavy vehicle operator, Company A, 4th BSB. “The training was extremely realistic.”

For eight days, the Soldiers completed more than 16 convoy operations, each one slightly different and more challenging than the last. The forward support companies attached to the other 1st SBCT battalions also participated. The convoys included elements from every company in the battalion as fuelers from Company A, mechanics and gunners from Company B, leadership elements from Headquarters and Headquarters Company and medics from Company C worked together to accomplish the mission.

“It was exhilarating and challenging,” said 2nd Lt. Cathy Reyes, distribution platoon leader, Company A, 4th BSB.

“Having an intermix of Soldiers from all the companies was very challenging. Incorporating their strengths and weaknesses is what will make or break a convoy mission.”

Spc. Evonne Sage, wheeled vehicle mechanic, Company B, 4th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, prepares to engage “enemies” with an M2 .50-caliber machine gun during training Oct. 17, 2016. (Photo by 1st Lt. Logan Bolitho)

By Maj. Gen. Ryan F. Gonsalves

Commanding general, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson

Maj. Gen. Ryan F. Gonsalves

We celebrate Veterans Day on the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I, the armistice that began on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. This day marked a time of commemorations, parades and public events, an opportunity to pay solemn tribute to those who died in the country’s service and give thanks for the end to the fighting in Europe.

In 1954, Congress changed the legal holiday, known as Armistice Day, to Veterans Day, a day to honor all of America’s veterans who fulfilled their oaths of service to this nation. This day is set aside to remember every man and woman who has taken up arms to defend our country, who gave some of the best years of their life to the service of our nation, and who stood ready to give their lives on our behalf.

This Veterans Day, as we honor and celebrate those whose service and sacrifice made our Army the greatest military force in the world, I want to thank our former “Iron Horse” Soldiers and their Families, as well as the nearly 52,000 veterans and their Families who reside in the greater Colorado Springs area. I also want to extend my gratitude to our current Soldiers who continue to fulfill their oaths of service to our nation with honor, integrity, distinction and pride. Your commitment to service ensures our way of life and builds upon the legacy of those veterans who have gone before you.

Our veterans have served on the beaches and plains of Europe, the jungles of Asia and the deserts of the Middle East, and our Iron Horse Soldiers continue to carry the colors at home and abroad, from Colorado to California, from Afghanistan to Poland, and the list goes on. No matter where they fight, who they fight, or when they fight, our Soldiers represent the finest our nation has to offer and never fail to accomplish their mission. The Iron Horse legacy is a testament to the long, proud traditions of America’s veterans from decades past, and the competency, resiliency and motivation of today’s “Ivy” Division Soldier is truly inspiring.

In closing, I want to reiterate my own, the division’s, and the Army’s gratitude for your service in defense of our nation. Whether for service in times of conflict or peace, you are owed a standing debt of gratitude for your willingness to step forward and serve. Thank you all for your service and your continued contributions to our nation.

Steadfast and Loyal.

A historic military vehicle with a banner bolstering support of the 4th Infantry Division drives down Tejon Street as part of the 2016 Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade Nov. 5, 2016. (Photo by Capt. Shaun T. Manley)

By Capt. Shaun T. Manley

4th Combat Aviation Brigade Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

Soldiers assigned to the 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson carry the “Flight of Flags” during the 2016 Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade Nov. 5, 2016. Nearly 5,000 people marched in this year’s parade along Tejon Street in downtown Colorado Springs. An estimated 35,000 people attended the parade. (Photo by Sgt. Gregory T. Summers)

COLORADO SPRINGS — Thousands gathered on the streets of downtown Nov. 5, 2016, to celebrate the 17th annual Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade and festivities.

“What a great event to be a part of,” said Evelyn Summers, an Army spouse attending the parade. “The amount of support our Soldiers and veterans receive from this city is astounding.”

Members of the parade committee plan the yearly event which includes military units and organizations supporting military and veterans throughout the surrounding community.

“This is a yearly event that my family looks forward to attending,” said Jessica Bartlett, an Air Force veteran and Colorado Springs resident. “The parade is always incredible, and we never miss it.”

As the downtown streets filled with spectators, the parade began with the 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson command team, Maj. Gen. Ryan F. Gonsalves and Command Sgt. Maj. Michael A. Crosby; Col. Lori L. Robinson, commander, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Inf. Div.; and other military and community leaders being honored as the reviewing party and special guests.

From left, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson’s command team, Maj. Gen. Ryan Gonsalves and Command Sgt. Michael Crosby, along with Col. Lori L. Robinson, commander, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Inf. Div., and other special guests render salutes as Fort Carson Soldiers march by carrying American flags during the 2016 Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade Nov. 5, 2016. (Photo by Capt. Shaun T. Manley)

Also on the reviewing stand, located at the intersection of Tejon Street and Pikes Peak Avenue, were various community and military leaders, veterans and family members from across the city.

American flags could be seen waving all along the roadside as the parade that included military veterans from throughout the decades; Cub, Boy and Girl Scouts; marching bands and Junior ROTC cadets from throughout the area; local chapters of the Veterans of Foreign Wars; the Patriot Guard and police officers marched south along Tejon Street.

Marching in the parade were more than 100 Soldiers assigned to 4th CAB, led by the 6th Attack Reconnaissance Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment, command team of Lt. Col. John Steen and Command Sgt. Maj. Brandon Perry, and the 4th Infantry Division Band and Fort Carson Mounted Color Guard and Soldiers throughout the division carrying the “Flight of Flags” collection.

Soldiers assigned to 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, march by the reviewing stand where the 4th Inf. Div. Command Team, Maj. Gen. Ryan F. Gonsalves and Command Sgt. Maj. Michael A. Crosby, and Col. Lori L. Robinson, commander, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Inf. Div., cheer during the 2016 Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade Nov. 5, 2016. (Photo by Capt. Shaun T. Manley)

“We were honored to represent our division in today’s parade,” said Perry. “We are extremely thankful for the support of the community and enjoyed every minute of this unique opportunity.”

As the Soldiers, Airmen, Marines, Navy and Coast Guard personnel, as well as U.S. Air Force Academy cadets and others, made their way through the city, shouts of “thank you” could be heard echoing against the local establishment walls and windows.

“What an incredible feeling to hear so many thanking us for our service,” said Perry. “Throughout the parade, there were so many grateful people cheering us on.”

When the marching, as well as driving and riding in military vehicles from throughout the decades and floats, concluded after nearly seven blocks, the parade ended, but not the festivities celebrating the nation’s veterans.

“That’s the thing about Colorado Springs, we celebrate our service members and veterans daily,” said Summers.

Soldiers assigned to 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, led by the 6th Attack Reconnaissance Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment, command team of Lt. Col. John Steen and Command Sgt. Maj. Brandon Perry, 4th CAB, march in formation during the 2016 Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade Nov. 5, 2016. (Photo by Capt. Shaun T. Manley)

Members of the 4th Infantry Division Band play “The Army Song” while marching in the 2016 Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade Nov. 5, 2016, in downtown. (Photo by Sgt. Gregory T. Summers)

Authentically dressed Soldier and vehicles of past generations and wars participate in the 2016 Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade Nov. 5, 2016. (Photo by Capt. Shaun T. Manley)

“This award recognizes culinary excellence, and I commend this team for exceeding the industry’s demanding standards.”

— Col. Eric P. Shirley

By Sgt. Gregory T. Summers

4th Combat Aviation Brigade Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

The Phillip A. Connelly Award for Excellence in Food Service Operations, which recognizes the best in overall dining facility operations throughout the Army, was presented to the Warfighter Dining Facility Nov. 3, 2016. (Photo by Sgt. Gregory T. Summers)

The U.S. Army Sustainment Command sent a commander to Fort Carson’s Warfighter Dining Facility (DFAC) Nov. 3, 2016, to present its team with the Phillip A. Connelly Award for the best garrison dining facility.

The Warfighter DFAC, a team effort of culinary specialists assigned to 4th Combat Aviation Brigade and 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, both part of the 4th Infantry Division, competed in the regional competition in August 2016 after advancing from the Mountain Post’s local competition in June 2016.

“I am proud to present the first place award to Fort Carson’s Warfighter Dining Facility,” said Col. Eric P. Shirley, commander, 407th Army Field Support Brigade (AFSB), U.S. Army Sustainment Command. “This award recognizes culinary excellence, and I commend this team for exceeding the industry’s demanding standards.”

The Phillip A. Connelly Award for Excellence in Food Service Operations recognizes the best in overall dining facility operations throughout the Army. With the best garrison award earned, the Warfighter DFAC team now advances to compete for the overall Department of the Army award in February.

“I am very proud of this team and all of (its) hard work and dedication,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 David W. Geier, brigade food service adviser, 4th CAB. “Winning this award is huge and gives us the oppor­tunity to continue to raise our standards and work even harder in the upcoming months.”

Col. Christopher T. Donahue, deputy commander, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, congratulated the team for rising above the other dining facilities within the 407th AFSB’s region, which includes Fort Carson, Fort Hood and Fort Bliss in Texas, and those at Fort Riley, Kansas.

“On behalf of all leaders of Fort Carson and 4th Infantry Division, we congratulate you and are extremely proud of your accomplishments,” Donahue said during the ceremony. “Winning this award is a big deal, and with your high standards, you are very deserving.”

According to Geier, the award is a result of dedication to excellence and teamwork, both recurring themes for Soldiers of both brigades running the dining facility during the competition.

“We are truly the team of teams, and complement each other every day with every task for every meal,” Geier said. “This competition has made us all better and has raised our high standards even higher. We are focused and looking forward to competing and winning at the next level.”

The Warfighter Dining Facility staff celebrates wining the Phillip A. Connelly Award for Excellence in Food Service Operations Nov. 3, 2016. (Photo by Sgt. Gregory T. Summers)

Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Ayala, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, stacks yogurt in the Wolf Dining Facility Nov. 4, 2016. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Gene Arnold)

By Staff Sgt. Gene Arnold

14th Public Affairs Detachment

Diners at the Wolf Dining Facility received either a scary or career affirming surprise as they were served breakfast by 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson Command Sgt. Maj. Michael A. Crosby, command sergeants major and senior enlisted leadership Nov. 4, 2016.

“We under acknowledge our (culinary specialists). We under acknowledge our mechanics, our medical personnel and sometimes, we under acknowledge our military police for what they do while you’re at home,” Crosby said.

“They’re out here busting hump trying to feed people, protecting the installation, working on vehicles or providing medical access to care,” he said. “So, basically, we’re going to walk in their shoes for a couple of hours to see what they go through every day and gain appreciation for what they do.”

Command Sgt. Maj. Michael A. Crosby, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, slices oranges with Pfc. Adela Uresti, culinary specialist assigned to 183rd Support Maintenance Company, 68th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, at Wolf Dining Facility Nov. 4, 2016. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Gene Arnold)

In walking in the shoes of a culinary specialist, the senior enlisted advisers were not only teamed up to receive orders from the Soldiers, they also were given a full inspection for cleanliness prior to their duties.

“I think (this) will give them a better understanding of what their Soldiers go through on a daily basis. Not only that, it will show them that their senior leadership cares about them,” said Sgt. 1st. Class Daniel McGowan, Wolf Dining Facility shift manager assigned to the 59th Military Police Company, 759th MP Battalion.

The senior NCOs began preparing a full meal three hours before the dining facility’s doors would open for business.

Some of the culinary specialists were surprised but welcomed the responsibility and welcomed the command leadership.

Seeing firsthand the teamwork, precision, attention to detail and enthusiasm each culinary specialist displayed energized the senior leadership in completing each task given by team leaders.

Having only two months of experience, Pvt. Adela Uresti, culinary specialist, 183rd Support Maintenance Company, 68th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, welcomed the challenge of providing Crosby with guidance and purpose on kitchen operations.

“Physically, we (culinary specialist) get looked down on a lot, and it kind of bums us out a little bit,” Uresti said.

“It was kind of scary at first, it gave me a rush. People scrambled around in the beginning, but once things started to get situated, things started to flow,” she said. “Seeing the sergeant major slicing vegetables with us and seeing how we operate … it was really awesome. It showed me they care about us.”

After the meal preparation was complete, the senior enlisted leaders served their creations to the dining facility customers. Soldiers didn’t know whether to stand at parade rest or continue through the line as usual.

Spc. Cody Holmes, Signal, Intelligence and Sustainment Company, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 4th Inf. Div., said it brightened his day.

“They are motivating. I came in here thinking, ‘Ah, yeah,’ but they were great, Holmes said. “They really started my day off on a good setting.”

An Abrams tank crew with 1st Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, moves to attack an objective during live-fire training at Fort Irwin, Calif., Sept. 8, 2016, as part of the brigade’s train-up for deployment to Europe in support of Atlantic Resolve. (Photo by Capt. Scott Walters)

By Capt. Scott Walters

3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

The 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, will send roughly 4,000 Soldiers and equipment to Europe this winter and will be the first heavy brigade to serve as part of continuous nine-month armor rotations in support of Atlantic Resolve, the Department of the Army announced Nov. 3, 2016.

“Bringing an entire armored brigade combat team, including all of our heavy equipment, to Europe is a challenging opportunity that 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team is proud to embark upon,” said Col. Christopher R. Norrie, brigade commander. “Thanks to the aggressive training we’ve conducted over the past year in preparation for this mission. I am confident we are the right heavy brigade to continue the armored presence in Europe.”

The brigade began shipping its equipment to Europe this week and will continue those efforts at Fort Carson over the next month. Brigade leaders and planners are currently in Europe conducting site surveys.

As U.S. Secretary of Defense Ash Carter announced in Brussels Oct. 26, 2016, U.S. Army Europe is preparing for an increased presence across the European theater to contribute to and strengthen the Alliance’s deterrence and defense. Although Atlantic Resolve has been ongoing since 2014, 3rd ABCT’s deployment marks the beginning of what is being termed “heel-to-toe” rotations of heavy brigades sent from the United States.

“Living and training alongside our NATO allies and partners on a daily basis will provide ample opportunities to build a comprehensive team that strengthens defensive capabilities and deters aggression in Europe,” Norrie said.

An Abrams tank crew with 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, conducts an area defense during force-on-force training as part of the brigade’s three-week Iron Strike field training exercise at Fort Carson July 13, 2016. As part of its train-up for deployment to Europe in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve, the “Iron Brigade’ trained extensively on decisive-action scenarios against near-peer forces. (Photo by Capt. Scott Walters)

“However, we also are mindful of the sacrifices our Soldiers and Families will make during this deployment. So we ask for the continued support of our extended family — the Fort Carson and Colorado Springs communities — to ensure our foundation at home remains ‘Iron Strong’ as well,” he added.

The brigade will be headquartered in Zagan, Poland, however it will disperse its armored battalions across seven countries, from Estonia to Bulgaria, plus another in Germany beginning in February. Over the course of its nine-month rotation, the brigade will routinely move units across the region to participate in multinational training events and exercises.

“Everything we’re about to do — everything we’ve been planning here at U.S. Army Europe for these rotational units — comes from the Alliance’s decisions at the (NATO) Wales and Warsaw summits,” said Lt. Gen. Ben Hodges, U.S. Army Europe commander. “These activities are the embodiment of the United States’ commitment to deterring aggression and defending our European Allies and partners.”

The Army also will provide a rotational combat aviation brigade to the European theater to support Atlantic Resolve and other joint and multinational efforts. By the end of March, the 10th Combat Aviation Brigade from Fort Drum, New York, will arrive in Europe for a nine-month rotation. The aviation brigade will be headquartered in Illesheim, Germany, and will forward deploy aircraft in Latvia, Romania and Poland to enhance the Alliance’s ability to deter aggression.

To oversee these rotational forces, the 4th Infantry Division Headquarters, which has been the regionally aligned division headquarters for Europe since 2015, will continue to be the tactical headquarters for all U.S. land forces conducting activities in support of Atlantic Resolve. Based in Baumholder, Germany, the 4th Inf. Div. Mission Command Element is the forward deployed headquarters element that provides U.S. Army Europe a division-level command and control capability.

“The 4th Infantry Division Mission Command Element is integral to Army Europe’s ability to conduct Atlantic Resolve missions,” Hodges said. “They’re a small element — less than 100 Soldiers — but they make a huge impact in the theater by controlling so many moving parts.”

The expansion of rotational forces is separate and distinct from NATO’s Enhanced Forward Presence battle groups, battalion-sized elements that also will contribute to the Alliance’s deterrence and defense capabilities. The 3rd ABCT will remain under U.S. command as part of Atlantic Resolve to focus on strengthening capabilities and sustaining readiness through bilateral and multi­national training and exercises.

By 1st Lt. Trevor Hanson

2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division

AFGHANISTAN — As F-16s take off into the sunset over the snowcapped mountains, Soldiers with Company B, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, conduct premission inspections to prepare for a “no-notice mission.”

The 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Soldiers from Fort Carson supported more than 320 combat missions in Afghanistan since arriving in March. Now known as Task Force Red Warrior the battalion serves as the Theater Reserve Force in support of Operation Resolute Support.

“The Red Warriors serve as the only conventional infantry battalion conducting operations across the entire theater in direct support of Operation Resolute Support,” said Lt. Col. Michael S. Avey, battalion commander, 1st Bn., 12th Inf. Reg.

“This is an important mission because we support theaterwide contingency operations and enable other units to conduct their specific missions, all of which have strategic implications on the security environment here in Afghanistan.”

Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, conduct close-quarters marksmanship training while deployed to Afghanistan. The battalion deployed in support of operations Freedom’s Sentinel and Resolute Support and is slated to return to Fort Carson by the end of the month. (U.S. Army photo)

During their deployment, the Soldiers have conducted numerous missions to include support for the Special Operations Task Force; security for advisers conducting train, advise and assist duties throughout Afghanistan; and force protection patrols. Additionally, the task force enabled convoy operations to clear strategic pieces of infrastructure, established a forward operating base and maintain continuous readiness as a quick reaction force.

The battalion also provided the capability to conduct combat operation across all 34 provinces by operating from several different locations, and providing support to both foreign and U.S. forces, which helped keep the battalion employed throughout the deployment.

“I didn’t know what to expect, but as soon as we got on the ground, we were busy,” said 1st Lt. Atticus Blair, platoon leader, Company B, 1st Bn. 12th Inf. Reg. “My platoon has worked with several organizations and has conducted operations in many of the provinces here in Afghanistan. We are thankful for the opportunity to give back to our country.”

Working in a dynamic operational environment with a broad mission set, leaders and Soldiers alike relied on the relationships established with coalition forces to ensure success.

“We were able to provide fire support for the Special Forces team we were attached to as they cleared villages with their Afghan counterparts in a northern province,” said Pfc. Geavian Hutchinson, indirect fire infantryman, Company B, 1st Bn., 12th Inf. Reg.

Hutchinson and seven other mortarmen were awarded Combat Infantryman Badges for establishing an 81 mm mortar firing point and executing several fire missions while engaging in ground combat with the enemy. Their actions enabled their Afghan partnered forces to maneuver on the enemy during the engagement.

Company leadership relied on training conducted in preparation for the deployment and continued to execute realistic training with adjacent units. Training with different organizations provided Soldiers the opportunity to build relationships with the units they supported as well as those they trained with daily. Many Soldiers said they enjoyed the opportunities to learn from other units and share best practices and operating procedures.

“Training with multiple units on Bagram Airfield enhanced the mission readiness for each company and platoon,” said Capt. Keith Haire, battalion assistant operations officer. “This training provided advanced techniques specific to the theater and complemented our core home station training.”

Platoon leader 1st Lt. Junaid Lughmani, Company C, 1st Bn., 12th Inf. Reg., said the mission could be difficult at times, but was happy with the way his troops performed.

“I’m proud of the work we’ve done,” said Lughmani. “We are doing our part to help people and improve the security environment in Afghanistan.”

The battalion is scheduled to return to Fort Carson later this month.

Soldiers with Battery A, 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, fire an M249 squad automatic weapon during training while deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel. (U.S. Army photo)

By Capt. Samuel Mock

2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division

AFGHANISTAN — Soldiers deploying to Afghanistan are often faced with various missions, whether it be base support, conducting patrols, convoy security or any number of tasks.

Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, deployed to Afghanistan in February, 2016, in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel. Soldiers with the battalion are scheduled to return to Fort Carson by the end of the month.

Immediately upon arriving in Afghanistan, Soldiers from the battalion formed a combined task force of more than 1,300 members responsible for force protection of Kandahar Airfield, assuming a mission filled with various tasks. Most of the mission was comprised of fire support, lethal targeting, patrols, air assault operations, route clearance, contingency operations and entry control point, perimeter and internal security.

“This mission truly highlights the adaptive, talented Soldiers of the 4th Infantry Division. Every Soldier has two or three jobs, ranging from tactical tasks to NATO partnership,” said Lt. Col. Neil Snyder, combined task force commander and battalion commander of 2nd Bn., 77th FA Reg. “It’s truly amazing to see how much Soldiers accomplish in a team of teams.”

In addition to maintaining a “hot-gun” team — a team ready to fire on a moment’s notice — the Soldiers of the battalion also provided support for expeditionary advisory packages and Guardian Angel support to Security Force Assistance Advisory Teams (SFAAT) throughout the region in addition to regularly partnering with their Afghan counterparts to conduct joint operations.

“It has been a unique opportunity for artillery Soldiers like us. I’ve never taken part in an infantry mission set like this one and gotten to work so closely with the Afghans,” said Spc. Jeffrey Griner, Battery A, 2nd Bn., 77th FA Reg. “I really enjoy developing relationships with the Afghan soldiers and policemen, and I am happy to contribute to such an important mission. The SFAAT (is) contributing on a large scale, and it’s exciting to be involved in their work.”

Contributing to the success of the multiple missions the Soldiers completed included the development of relationships that created more than just friendships.

“It’s been a rewarding experience to work alongside the SFAAT and their Afghan counterparts. It is apparent that the relationships we have developed have drastically progressed, compared to the first time we began operating in Afghanistan this deployment,” said 1st Lt. Max Smith, platoon leader, Battery A, 2nd Bn., 77th FA Reg. “The platoon has gotten to know many of the Afghan soldiers and policemen at the various touchpoints we visit and created friendships that improve our security in the area of operations and brought our cultures closer together. The SFAAT has made great strides in assisting the Afghans in their mission and the Soldiers enjoy contributing to their efforts.”

One platoon from Battery A provided the only indirect fire support in Kandahar Province to members of Kandahar Airfield (KAF) and Special Operations Forces operating in the province. Over the course of the deployment, the M777 platoon conducted more than 250 illumination missions, 150 high-explosive missions and an Excaliber M982 mission in support of KAF defensive plans and maneuver forces in Kandahar Province.

“Being afforded the opportunity to employ indirect fire support in a deployed environment has been rewarding for both the cannoneers and the task force,” said Capt. Matthew Murphy, commander, Battery A, 2nd Bn., 77th FA Reg. “Being able to synchronize indirect fires with the ground scheme of maneuver has played an important role on the success of the operations within the ground defense area as well as helped support the Afghan Nation Defense Security Force’s missions.”

Despite the many challenges and various missions the Soldiers faced throughout the deployment, success proved to be the standard.

“The Soldiers are deeply committed to the mission. Every day is ‘no fail’ and the Soldiers clearly derive personal meaning from the effort,” said Snyder.

Soldiers from the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, are greeted by leadership Nov. 16, 2016, as they disembark a plane at the Arrival/Departure Air Control Group, returning home from a nine-month deployment to Afghanistan.

“(The Soldiers) have performed magnificently in some very complex missions and situations. Most importantly, we brought everyone home …”

— Col. Matthew Cody

Col. Matthew Cody, commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Sammy Sparger uncase the 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, colors during a welcome home ceremony Nov. 16, 2016, at the William “Bill” Reed Special Events Center.

By Sgt. 1st Class Tre Marris

2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

Family and friends gathered at the William “Bill” Reed Special Events Center in the early morning hours Nov. 16, 2016, to welcome their loved ones from deployment. The 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, command team uncased the brigade’s colors, signifying the brigade is officially home.

Col. Matthew Cody, commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Sammy Sparger led the ceremony uncasing the brigade colors as leadership teams from 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment; 2nd Battalion, 12 Infantry Regiment; and 2nd Battalion, 77th Field Artillery Regiment; uncased their battalion colors.

The brigade deployed to Afghanistan in support of operations Freedom Sentinel and Resolute Support, but that wasn’t the extent of their mission set. Units from 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment, deployed to Kosovo in support of peacekeeping operations and an unmanned aerial vehicle platoon deployed to Iraq in support of operations there.

Despite the broad mission set, Cody said it was rewarding to see the success of his Soldiers from train-up for deployment to finally getting home.

“I’m very proud of the entire organization and the accomplishments we have had up to this point,” Cody said. “(The Soldiers) have performed magnificently in some very complex missions and situations. Most importantly, we brought everyone home, which is most important to me.”

While deployed to Afghanistan, Soldiers performed over 5,000 combat missions and patrols in a broad area of the country covering Kabul, Kandahar and Helmand Province.

Sgt. Chad Berlin embraces his daughters, Riley, left, and McKala, during a welcome home ceremony Nov. 16, 2016, at the William “Bill” Reed Special Events Center. Chad Berlin, 1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, returned from a nine-month deployment. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Tre Marris)

“One of the most important things we did during this deployment is helped make the Afghan people and army better,” Cody said. “At times it was slow and steady, but there was continued progress. Overall, I’m very proud of the fact that our team came together despite being spread out across the country and having to face various mission sets.”

For a Soldier serving in the military, one of the most important forces available is the support force from home. Whether it is in their hometown, local friends or the spouse and children waiting at their home installation, Soldiers rely on that extra “push” from home to keep going, a fact not lost on Cody.

“I can’t thank the Families enough for their sacrifices and everything they do day in and day out to support our Soldiers,” Cody said. “We couldn’t do this without the Families’ support and that of the local community, installation and the multitude of organizations who are willing to help out. I personally want to say ‘thank you’ to them all.”

Jade Jensen, 6, shows her father, Staff Sgt. Kelly Jensen, a picture she colored, during the Detachment B, 230th Financial Management Support Unit, 4th Special Troops Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, welcome home ceremony Nov. 8, 2016, at the 4th SB headquarters. (Photo by Sgt. 1st Class John Cortez)

By Sgt. 1st Class John Cortez

4th Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs Office, 4th Infantry Division

With the room filled with signs and anxious loved ones, Families and friends welcomed home Detachment B, 230th Financial Management Support Detachment, 4th Special Troops Battalion, 4th Sustainment Brigade, 4th Inf. Div., Nov. 9, 2016, at the brigade headquarters.

The Soldiers returned from a nine-month deployment in support of military operations in Afghanistan.

“I am deeply honored to stand here before you. Most of you are young Soldiers on your first unit assignment and have just finished completing your first combat tour,” said Maj. Ricardo Ortiz, commander, 230th FMSU, during the welcome home ceremony. “I am honored to serve alongside you because when this was started about 15 years ago most of you were young children growing up in a privileged nation, with no obligation to serve, and yet you still had the courage to sacrifice any comfort you might have to join the 1 percent of Americans who serve and defend this nation. I am proud of you.”

During their time in Afghanistan, the detachment provided financial management support to more than 20,000 U.S. military service members, Department of Defense civilians and contractors.

“For half of our guys, this was their first time deploying,” said Capt. Morgan McCreary, commander, Det. B, 230th FMSU. “They all did a great job preparing for and performing their mission over there.

We had our challenges, but overall I can’t be any more proud of our guys.”

Staff Sgt. Keith Wong said it was great to be back home with his wife and daughter.

“It was a long deployment, but I am happy to be back and grateful to see my Family,” Wong said. “We had a few close calls in Afghanistan, but we all made it home safe.”

Wong’s wife, Susanne, shared the sentiment.

“I’m just happy that he’s back home and safe,” she said.

Ortiz highlighted some of the detachment’s accomplishments during the deployment including the re-enlistment of two “Renegade” Soldiers, two members winning

NCO and Soldier of the Month boards and four Soldiers being promoted. He noted the most important feat was that each member of Detachment B came home safe and sound.